One of the themes is that generation doesnt have to be done in massive chunks, and rightly notes that for myriad reasons nothing to do with generaton its really hard to do generation in smaller chunks. Most particularly, theres no big company with big funding who will take up the challenge.

Really, the ethical target for this information has to be the ad agencies and the finance companies, as so much overspending is generated by their efforts.

Perhaps a private member’s bill aimed at restricting the gouging practice of credit?

Along with funding to help the community agencies who already mop up those who’ve slipped off the credit ladder into functional bankruptcy, and need industrial strength budgeting advice.

Institutional financial abuse is rife in this country, as practically anyone can call themselves a financial advisor, and gain income from recommending clients to buy products of various firms (yes, any unemployed BCom grad can apply for a licence, go have a look… it take seriously irregular behaviour before someone can be thrown off the register; bad advice just doesn’t get a look in)

Our real problem is that nobody has come up with a way of marketing efficiency as cool/sexy/smart/healthy/”life enhancing”. Positive, empowering messages are much needed. Failing that, make us laugh at someone elses expense. Like the latest Greenpeace anti SUV ad.

Social stigma is a powerful thing. In a negative way. There needs to be some real effort put into marketing efficiency so that it appeals to “mainstream” (oooh, I hate that word) Kiwis. Preferably in a positive, empowering light.